|
Soap Box Derby returns, grows
Racers compete for a chance at nationals
BY
ALLEN HOWARD |
Bryan Schweinfus and his daughter Hannah, 11, are gearing up for the
Cincinnati Soap Box Derby, which will return June 23 and give racers the
chance to represent Cincinnati at the All-American National Championship in
Akron.
The Derby is a youth racing program open to boys and girls, ages 8
through 17.
"Hannah participated last year, but this year she has a better
chance of going to the nationals," said Schweinfus, of Loveland.
"We are ready for the race."
Last year's race, on Gilbert Avenue near
downtown, was the first in 28 years. This year, there will be
"secondary competitions," including the Cincinnati Cup, Irish
Derby and the Contractors Cup.
Doug Newberry, race director, said these events challenge communities,
businesses and organizations to form a team, build a car and compete for a
special trophy and bragging rights.
"I am going to be asking all neighborhoods to get involved in these
competitions," Newberry said.
Newberry is expecting a larger field than last year. He said he has been
receiving calls from new families interested in getting their kids
involved.
"We have about 20 teams of the 24 we had last year already
registered," Newberry said.
Kids build their own cars from kits. Prices start at $515, and teams are
allowed to get sponsors to offset the costs.
Registration starts Saturday online at www.CincinnatiSoapBoxDerby.com.
The fee is $50. Entry deadline is May 26.
The races will begin at 10 a.m. on Gilbert Avenue, starting in front of
the Grand Baldwin building and ending near WCPO-Channel 9's studios.
Two cars will compete in each race, with the winner moving on to another
race.
Cincinnati.Com » The Enquirer
» Local news » Soap Box Derby
returns, grows
|
